Presentations to the Rev. Bixby and his family -- his wife, Carolyn, and their children, Katie and Kiersten -- were also made by church members Amy Hoeniger and Ann Marie Davenport, and by the Washington Parks & Recreation Commission in recognition of their many years of volunteer efforts in town.

"We extend our blessings and love to the Bixbys as they leave behind a congregation and community who will miss them very much," read Saturday's program.

The Rev. Bixby will soon begin his work at a church in Attleboro, Mass.